SGGP
According to data released by the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO), the tourism industry in Japan has recovered to 85.6% (2.16 million people) – a level recorded in 2019 before the Covid-19 pandemic. However, not everyone is happy with this announcement.
The charm and tranquil atmosphere of ancient cities have been ruined by the overwhelming number of tourists, severely impacting the lives of local residents. Locals find it difficult to get transportation to work, and Maiko (apprentice geisha) are harassed by tourists who surround them demanding selfies, sometimes even acting rudely...
To cope with overcrowding during the autumn season (peak tourist season), the Kyoto city government was forced to announce a list of measures, including increasing the number of bus services connecting railway stations and attractions; encouraging the use of the subway; and establishing temporary luggage storage areas at stations…
In an effort to quell local discontent, the Kyoto City Tourism Association also released a leaflet for tourists titled "Please Be Mindful of Your Conduct," which outlines appreciated behaviors (e.g., bringing reusable shopping bags) and unacceptable actions (such as smoking in public places)...
 |
Tourist overcrowding near Kiyomizu-dera Shrine. Photo: GETTY IMAGES |
At railway crossings in Kamakura, a historic town about an hour's train ride southwest of Tokyo, crowds of tourists are taking selfies at the intersection, disrupting traffic and forcing local authorities to deploy security personnel to prevent accidents. Meanwhile, Mount Fuji – a UNESCO World Heritage site – is also facing a "crisis of overtourism."
According to Nikkei Asia, this year marks the 10th anniversary of Mount Fuji's recognition as a World Heritage Site, but environmental impacts and the destruction of its natural beauty threaten to dethrone this sacred mountain. Even seemingly unremarkable places are packed with tourists.
The situation is better in the more remote provincial cities. Morioka, the capital of Iwate Prefecture, is a peaceful city, ranked second only to London on The New York Times' list of "52 places to visit in 2023"...
Since the pandemic, Morioka has avoided the tourist congestion that many other cities are experiencing. When the local tourism association wanted to display banners to advertise the New York Times ranking, the city government rejected the plan, arguing that it would ruin the city's landscape.
Governor Tasso Takuya of Iwate could not hide his delight at this recognition and hoped that Japan's more unspoiled regions would follow Morioka's example in protecting their unique beauty. This is because uncontrolled development and overcrowding threaten the very charm that makes these places special.
Source
Comment (0)